Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 58/100 (MIXED)

2021 Porsche 911 Reliability Report

Name: 2021 Porsche 911
Brand: Porsche

The 2021 Porsche 911 scores 58/100 ("Mixed"). With 6 recalls and 5 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

5.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$1072

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,300–$4,050

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity70/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact54/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity74/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY (1)
SEATS (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2021 is year 2 of the Eighth generation (992).

Redesigned for the 2020 model year.
A refresh arrives in 2024.
8th generation 911 (US).

What this means for buyers

Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.

If you're comparing prices, check 2020 (redesign year) vs 2021+ pricing and recalls.

2020: Eighth generation (992) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is year 2 of the Eighth generation (992).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2021 Porsche 911?

A 58/100 score puts the 2021 Porsche 911 in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2021 is year 2 of the Eighth generation (992).

Complaint volume sits above average at 5 owner complaints alongside 6 recalls. Issues in fuel/propulsion system and fuel propulsion system (3) tend to be the costly ones.

Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put fuel/propulsion system and fuel propulsion system (3) at the top of the inspection checklist.

Compared to the 2022 Porsche 911, which scored the same. See also the 2020 Porsche 911 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
+Not a first-year model
+Only 5 complaints reported

Cons

−Below-average reliability score
−Above-average repair costs for its class
−Above-average recall count
−FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM: Fuel injector faults and fuel line failures (3 complaints)
−1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
−Safety recall: park-it advisory issued

Compare 2021 Porsche 911 With

2021 Chevrolet Corvette

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2021 Toyota Supra

Reliability: 64/100

Good

2021 BMW 4-Series

Reliability: 57/100

Mixed

2021 Ford Mustang

Reliability: 54/100

Mixed

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

6 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

MODERATE

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

Park It

The 2021 Porsche 911 has 6 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

5.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.9

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 Porsche 911 Recall Details

6 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Porsche 911. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V8960002025-12-19

BACK OVER PREVENTION

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2019-2025 Cayenne, Cayenne E-Hybrid, 2020-2025 911, Taycan, 2024-2025 Panamera, and 2025 Panamera E-Hybrid vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A rearview image that does not display properly reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the driver assistance software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2026. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ASB2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 19, 2026.

24V8090002024-10-28Park It

WHEELS

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2025 Panamera, 2024 718 Cayman GT4 RS, 718 Spyder RS, and 2021-2024 911 vehicles. The center lock wheel bolt may fracture and cause the wheel to detach.

Consequence

Wheel detachment can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Owners should not drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. Dealers will check the center lock wheel fastening system and replace any incorrectly manufactured parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 24, 2024. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ARC4.

24V1550002024-02-28

VISIBILITY

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2020-2024 911 vehicles. The front windshield and rear window may not be properly secured and can detach.

Consequence

During air bag deployment, an unsecured windshield may not support the front air bags as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield and rear window as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 30, 2024. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche's number for this recall is ARA3.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Porsche 911? Check its history first

Every 2021 Porsche 911 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2021 Porsche 911 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head-Thorax (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (N/A)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Porsche 911Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$1072

vs $739 avg for luxury midsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.5

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

22%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

911

$1072

Category Avg

$739

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

17–21 MPG

Running cost: $4,350–$5,100/yr

Fuel + repair

15–18 city / 20–25 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
911 Carrera S 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 7-spd	18	25	21	$3,300
911 Carrera 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	24	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	24	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	24	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4S 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	23	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4S 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 7-spd	17	25	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	23	20	$3,450
911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 7-spd	17	24	20	$3,450
911 Carrera Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	24	20	$3,450
911 Carrera S 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	23	20	$3,450
911 Carrera S Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	23	20	$3,450
911 Carrera S Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 7-spd	17	25	20	$3,450
911 Targa 4 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	24	20	$3,450
911 Targa 4S 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	18	23	20	$3,450
911 Targa 4S 3.0L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 7-spd	17	24	20	$3,450
911 Turbo 3.7L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	15	20	17	$4,050
911 Turbo Cabriolet 3.7L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	15	20	17	$4,050
911 Turbo S 3.7L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	15	20	17	$4,050
911 Turbo S Cabriolet 3.7L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AM-S8)	15	20	17	$4,050

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Porsche 911.

Inspect fuel injectors for electrical faults, especially cylinders 2 and 4
Check for signs of fuel leaks in the engine compartment
Verify if any fuel system recalls have been addressed
Test seat back release mechanisms for proper function

2021 Porsche 911 Common Problems by Component

5 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY (1)SEATS (1)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Porsche 911 report issues with the fuel/propulsion system, primarily involving fuel injector faults and fuel line failures. Complaints frequently mention electrical faults in the fuel injectors for cylinders 2 and 4, leading to reduced power warnings and costly repairs, with one owner reporting injector replacement at 13,455 miles. Another significant issue involves fuel line failures causing leaks in the engine compartment, occurring in two separate instances over consecutive years, resulting in repair costs and extended service times. Notably, one owner reports a fire incident following an explosion at the rear of the vehicle shortly after starting the engine. These issues suggest potential safety hazards, particularly concerning fuel leaks and fire risks.

3 complaints total1 fire

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

1 complaint

2021-06-11

2021 Porsche 911. Consumer writes in regards to missing computer chip for proper steering.

SEATS

1 complaint

2021-04-25

THE SEAT BACK RELEASE ON BOTH SEATS IS VERY HARD TO PULL. ON THE DRIVERS SIDE THE STRAP BROKE FREE WHILE ATTEMPTING TO EXIT AND THE SEAT WOULD NOT RELEASE. THIS COULD BE A SAFETY DANGER IN A CRASH WHEN REAR SEAT OCCUPANTS WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO EXIT

When Do 2021 Porsche 911 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

13,000–14,000 milesFuel injector electrical faults

Best & Worst Porsche 911 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Porsche 911 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Porsche 911 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 68/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2019 (64/100) and 2018 (64/100).

Top Pick

Good

Porsche 911 Years to Avoid

No Porsche 911 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Porsche 911 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Porsche 911 years-to-avoid analysis

Porsche 911 Reliability Score Trend

Porsche 911 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 61/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Porsche 911 reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	64/100	Good
2019	64/100	Good
2020	60/100	Good
2021	58/100	Mixed
2022	58/100	Mixed
2023	58/100	Mixed
2025	68/100	Good

Porsche 911 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2025	68/100	+10	Good	2	0
2023	58/100	0	Mixed	6	2
2022	58/100	0	Mixed	9	16
2021(selected)	58/100	-2	Mixed	6	5
2020	60/100	-4	Good	7	3
2019	64/100	0	Good	1	2
2018	64/100	—	Good	1	1

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Porsche 911 reliable?

The 2021 Porsche 911 has a "Mixed" reliability rating (58/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 6 recalls and 5 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Porsche 911?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Porsche 911 include: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3 complaints), EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY (1 complaints), SEATS (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 Porsche 911 have?

The 2021 Porsche 911 has 6 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 Porsche 911 expensive to maintain?

The 2021 Porsche 911 has estimated annual repair costs of $1072/year, which is $333 more than the luxury midsize cars average of $739. Its reliability score of 58/100 and 5 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely. Budgeting for maintenance reserves is advisable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Porsche 911 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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